Carmes de Rieussec Sauternes

Carmes de Rieussec is the dry brother of the famous Château Rieussec – not a sweet wine, but a bone-dry white wine from the heart of Sauternes. Anyone who thinks Sauternes can only be sweet will be taught otherwise here.

Château Rieussec has belonged to Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite) since 1984 and is located right next to Château d'Yquem on the gravel-limestone and sand soils of Fargues. The vines for Carmes de Rieussec – predominantly Sauvignon Blanc, supplemented by Sémillon – grow on parcels that are not selected for botrytis harvesting. The result is an independent, artisanally vinified white wine with wood aging that does justice to the terroir of this exceptional site.

In the nose, it initially shows cool minerality: hot stone, dry grass after the rain. Then it opens up to fresh apricot and white flowers. On the palate, citrus dominates – lemon peel, a hint of grapefruit – carried by lively acidity and wood aging that has fully integrated and gives the wine depth without heaviness.

Serving temperature 10–12 °C. Pairs with lobster with butter sauce, grilled sea bass, goat cheese, or a classic roast chicken.